Mobile terminal

ABSTRACT

A mobile terminal comprises: a case that has an insertion hole formed on a side surface thereof; a metal beam that includes a side metal covering the side surface of the case, and a connection bridge penetrating the insertion hole and extending towards the inside of the case from the side metal; a fixing device that is inserted into a fixing hole formed on the connection bridge so as to be fastened to the case; and a waterproof packing that is interposed between the side surface of the case and the side metal, and that has an opening part through which the connection bridge passes. As a result, water cannot get inside the terminal, and malfunctioning due to water permeation can be prevented thereby.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a National Stage application under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of International Application No. PCT/KR2016/012057, filed on Oct. 26, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a mobile terminal having a waterproof structure for preventing water from flowing into an opening for connection between a metal case and a main board.

BACKGROUND ART

Terminals may be generally classified as mobile/portable terminals or stationary terminals according to their mobility. Mobile terminals may also be classified as handheld terminals or vehicle mounted terminals according to whether or not a user can directly carry the terminal.

Mobile terminals have become increasingly more functional. Examples of such functions include data and voice communications, capturing images and video via a camera, recording audio, playing music files via a speaker system, and displaying images and video on a display. Some mobile terminals include additional functionality which supports game playing, while other terminals are configured as multimedia players. More recently, mobile terminals have been configured to receive broadcast and multicast signals which permit viewing of content such as videos and television programs.

As such functions become more diversified, the mobile terminal can support more complicated functions such as capturing images or video, reproducing music or video files, playing games, receiving broadcast signals, and the like. By comprehensively and collectively implementing such functions, the mobile terminal may be embodied in the form of a multimedia player or device.

As the functions of a mobile terminal are expanded, users who want to use the mobile terminal in a swimming pool or a bathroom with water are increased. Due to the nature of electronic products, water infiltrating into internal parts causes malfunction. That is, a need for a mobile terminal having a waterproof function is gradually increasing.

DISCLOSURE Technical Problem

An object of the present invention devised to solve the problem lies on a mobile terminal having a waterproof structure for preventing water from flowing into an opening for connection between a metal case and a main board.

Technical Solution

The object of the present invention can be achieved by providing a mobile terminal including a case including an insertion hole formed in a side surface thereof; a metal beam including a side metal for covering the side surface of the case and a connection bridge extending from the side metal into the case through the insertion hole; a fastener inserted into a fixing hole formed in the connection bridge and fastened to the case; and a waterproof packing interposed between the side surface of the case and the side metal and having an opening through which the connection bridge passes.

The mobile terminal may further include a connection substrate positioned inside the case and having one end in contact with the connection bridge.

The connection substrate may include an opening through which the fastener passes, the connection substrate being interposed between the case and the connection bridge.

The mobile terminal may further include a main board mounted inside the case; a first connecting clip formed on a first surface of the main board and in contact with an opposite end of the connection substrate; a second connection clip formed on a second surface of the main board and electrically connected to the first connection clip; and an antenna in contact with the second connection clip.

The connection bridge may include a first connection bridge connected to one side of the antenna; and a second connection bridge spaced apart from the first connection bridge and connected to a second portion of the antenna.

The mobile terminal may further include a ground electrically connected to the bridge.

The fastener may include a fixing pin having a diameter corresponding to the fix hole and a head larger than the diameter of the fixing pin.

The mobile terminal may include an auxiliary bridge positioned on an outer surface of the case; and an auxiliary fastener fastened to the case by passing through the auxiliary bridge.

The case may include a front case allowing a display unit to be seated on one surface thereof; and a rear case coupled to a rear surface of the front case to define an internal space, wherein the fastener passing through the connection bridge may be coupled on an opposite surface of the front case, and wherein the auxiliary fastener passing through the auxiliary bridge may be coupled on the one surface of the front case.

An end portion of the auxiliary fastener may be in the same plane as the one surface of the front case.

Advantageous Effects

Effects of the mobile terminal and the control method according to the present invention will be described below.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, water may not be allowed to infiltrate into the terminal, and therefore malfunction caused by water infiltration may be prevented.

In addition, an antenna may be realized using an external metal structure without separately providing an additional structure for the antenna.

Further scope of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a block diagram of a mobile terminal in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 1B and 1C are conceptual views of one example of the mobile terminal, viewed from different directions.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the mobile terminal in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 3 and 4 are flow diagrams illustrating a process of assembling a metal beam of a mobile terminal in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 1C.

FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a combination of an antenna pattern and the metal beam of the mobile terminal in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in FIG. 1C.

BEST MODE

Description will now be given in detail according to exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the sake of brief description with reference to the drawings, the same or equivalent components may be provided with the same reference numbers, and description thereof will not be repeated. In general, a suffix such as “module” and “unit” may be used to refer to elements or components. Use of such a suffix herein is merely intended to facilitate description of the specification, and the suffix itself is not intended to give any special meaning or function. In the present disclosure, that which is well-known to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art has generally been omitted for the sake of brevity. The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand various technical features and it should be understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings. As such, the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying drawings.

It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are generally only used to distinguish one element from another.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected with” another element, the element can be directly connected with the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected with” another element, there are no intervening elements present.

A singular representation may include a plural representation unless it represents a definitely different meaning from the context.

Terms such as “include” or “has” are used herein and should be understood that they are intended to indicate an existence of several components, functions or steps, disclosed in the specification, and it is also understood that greater or fewer components, functions, or steps may likewise be utilized.

Mobile terminals presented herein may be implemented using a variety of different types of terminals. Examples of such terminals include cellular phones, smart phones, user equipment, laptop computers, digital broadcast terminals, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigators, portable computers (PCs), slate PCs, tablet PCs, ultra books, wearable devices (for example, smart watches, smart glasses, head mounted displays (HMDs)), and the like.

By way of non-limiting example only, further description will be made with reference to particular types of mobile terminals. However, such teachings apply equally to other types of terminals, such as those types noted above. In addition, these teachings may also be applied to stationary terminals such as digital TV, desktop computers, and the like.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 1A-1C, where FIG. 1A is a block diagram of a mobile terminal in accordance with the present disclosure, and FIGS. 1B and 1C are conceptual views of one example of the mobile terminal, viewed from different directions.

The mobile terminal 100 is shown having components such as a wireless communication unit 110, an input unit 120, a sensing unit 140, an output unit 150, an interface unit 160, a memory 170, a controller 180, and a power supply unit 190. It is to be understood that implementing all the illustrated components in FIG. 1A is not a requirement, and that more or fewer components may alternatively be implemented.

More specifically, the wireless communication unit 110 typically includes one or more modules which permit communications such as wireless communications between the mobile terminal 100 and a wireless communication system, communications between the mobile terminal 100 and another mobile terminal, communications between the mobile terminal 100 and an external server. Further, the wireless communication unit 110 typically includes one or more modules which connect the mobile terminal 100 to one or more networks.

To facilitate such communications, the wireless communication unit 110 includes one or more of a broadcast receiving module 111, a mobile communication module 112, a wireless Internet module 113, a short-range communication module 114, and a location information module 115.

The input unit 120 includes a camera 121 for obtaining images or video, a microphone 122, which is one type of audio input device for inputting an audio signal, and a user input unit 123 (for example, a touch key, a push key, a mechanical key, a soft key, and the like) for allowing a user to input information. Data (for example, audio, video, image, and the like) is obtained by the input unit 120 and may be analyzed and processed by controller 180 according to device parameters, user commands, and combinations thereof.

The sensing unit 140 is typically implemented using one or more sensors configured to sense internal information of the mobile terminal, the surrounding environment of the mobile terminal, user information, and the like. For example, the sensing unit 140 may alternatively or additionally include other types of sensors or devices, such as a proximity sensor 141 and an illumination sensor 142, a touch sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, a G-sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a finger scan sensor, a ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor (for example, camera 121), a microphone 122, a battery gauge, an environment sensor (for example, a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation detection sensor, a thermal sensor, and a gas sensor, among others), and a chemical sensor (for example, an electronic nose, a health care sensor, a biometric sensor, and the like), to name a few. The mobile terminal 100 may be configured to utilize information obtained from sensing unit 140, and in particular, information obtained from one or more sensors of the sensing unit 140, and combinations thereof.

The output unit 150 is typically configured to output various types of information, such as audio, video, tactile output, and the like. The output unit 150 is shown having a display unit 151, an audio output module 152, a haptic module 153, and an optical output module 154. The display unit 151 may have an inter-layered structure or an integrated structure with a touch sensor in order to facilitate a touch screen. The touch screen may provide an output interface between the mobile terminal 100 and a user, as well as function as the user input unit 123 which provides an input interface between the mobile terminal 100 and the user.

The interface unit 160 serves as an interface with various types of external devices that can be coupled to the mobile terminal 100. The interface unit 160, for example, may include any of wired or wireless ports, external power supply ports, wired or wireless data ports, memory card ports, ports for connecting a device having an identification module, audio input/output (I/O) ports, video I/O ports, earphone ports, and the like. In some cases, the mobile terminal 100 may perform assorted control functions associated with a connected external device, in response to the external device being connected to the interface unit 160.

The memory 170 is typically implemented to store data to support various functions or features of the mobile terminal 100. For instance, the memory 170 may be configured to store application programs executed in the mobile terminal 100, data or instructions for operations of the mobile terminal 100, and the like. Some of these application programs may be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. Other application programs may be installed within the mobile terminal 100 at time of manufacturing or shipping, which is typically the case for basic functions of the mobile terminal 100 (for example, receiving a call, placing a call, receiving a message, sending a message, and the like). It is common for application programs to be stored in the memory 170, installed in the mobile terminal 100, and executed by the controller 180 to perform an operation (or function) for the mobile terminal 100.

The controller 180 typically functions to control overall operation of the mobile terminal 100, in addition to the operations associated with the application programs. The controller 180 may provide or process information or functions appropriate for a user by processing signals, data, information and the like, which are input or output, or activating application programs stored in the memory 170.

To drive the application programs stored in the memory 170, the controller 180 may be implemented to control a predetermined number of the components mentioned above in reference with FIG. 1A. Moreover, the controller 180 may be implemented to operate a combination of two or more of the components provided in the mobile terminal 100 to drive the application programs.

The power supply unit 190 can be configured to receive external power or provide internal power in order to supply appropriate power required for operating elements and components included in the mobile terminal 100. The power supply unit 190 may include a battery, and the battery may be configured to be embedded in the terminal body, or configured to be detachable from the terminal body.

Some or more of the components may be operated cooperatively to embody an operation, control or a control method of the mobile terminal in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Also, the operation, control or control method of the mobile terminal may be realized on the mobile terminal by driving of one or more application problems stored in the memory 170.

Hereinafter, referring to FIG. 1, the components mentioned above will be described in detail before describing the various embodiments which are realized by the mobile terminal 100 in accordance with the present disclosure.

Regarding the wireless communication unit 110, the broadcast receiving module 111 is typically configured to receive a broadcast signal and/or broadcast associated information from an external broadcast managing entity via a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel may include a satellite channel, a terrestrial channel, or both. In some embodiments, two or more broadcast receiving modules 111 may be utilized to facilitate simultaneously receiving of two or more broadcast channels, or to support switching among broadcast channels.

The mobile communication module 112 can transmit and/or receive wireless signals to and from one or more network entities. Typical examples of a network entity include a base station, an external mobile terminal, a server, and the like. Such network entities form part of a mobile communication network, which is constructed according to technical standards or communication methods for mobile communications (for example, Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), Code Division Multi Access (CDMA), CDMA2000 (Code Division Multi Access 2000), EV-DO (Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), High Speed Downlink Packet access (HSDPA), HSUPA (High Speed Uplink Packet Access), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced), and the like).

Examples of wireless signals transmitted and/or received via the mobile communication module 112 include audio call signals, video (telephony) call signals, or various formats of data to support communication of text and multimedia messages.

The wireless Internet module 113 is configured to facilitate wireless Internet access. This module may be internally or externally coupled to the mobile terminal 100. The wireless Internet module 113 may transmit and/or receive wireless signals via communication networks according to wireless Internet technologies.

Examples of such wireless Internet access include Wireless LAN (WLAN), Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA), Wireless Broadband (WiBro), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), HSUPA (High Speed Uplink Packet Access), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced), and the like. The wireless Internet module 113 may transmit/receive data according to one or more of such wireless Internet technologies, and other Internet technologies as well.

In some embodiments, when the wireless Internet access is implemented according to, for example, WiBro, HSDPA, HSUPA, GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, LTE, LTE-A and the like, as part of a mobile communication network, the wireless Internet module 113 performs such wireless Internet access. As such, the Internet module 113 may cooperate with, or function as, the mobile communication module 112.

The short-range communication module 114 is configured to facilitate short-range communications. Suitable technologies for implementing such short-range communications include BLUETOOTH™, Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra-WideBand (UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, Wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus), and the like. The short-range communication module 114 in general supports wireless communications between the mobile terminal 100 and a wireless communication system, communications between the mobile terminal 100 and another mobile terminal 100, or communications between the mobile terminal and a network where another mobile terminal 100 (or an external server) is located, via wireless area networks. One example of the wireless area networks is a wireless personal area networks.

In some embodiments, another mobile terminal (which may be configured similarly to mobile terminal 100) may be a wearable device, for example, a smart watch, a smart glass or a head mounted display (HMD), which is able to exchange data with the mobile terminal 100 (or otherwise cooperate with the mobile terminal 100). The short-range communication module 114 may sense or recognize the wearable device, and permit communication between the wearable device and the mobile terminal 100. In addition, when the sensed wearable device is a device which is authenticated to communicate with the mobile terminal 100, the controller 180, for example, may cause transmission of data processed in the mobile terminal 100 to the wearable device via the short-range communication module 114. Hence, a user of the wearable device may use the data processed in the mobile terminal 100 on the wearable device. For example, when a call is received in the mobile terminal 100, the user may answer the call using the wearable device. Also, when a message is received in the mobile terminal 100, the user can check the received message using the wearable device.

The location information module 115 is generally configured to detect, calculate, derive or otherwise identify a position of the mobile terminal. As an example, the location information module 115 includes a Global Position System (GPS) module, a Wi-Fi module, or both. If desired, the location information module 115 may alternatively or additionally function with any of the other modules of the wireless communication unit 110 to obtain data related to the position of the mobile terminal. As one example, when the mobile terminal uses a GPS module, a position of the mobile terminal may be acquired using a signal sent from a GPS satellite. As another example, when the mobile terminal uses the Wi-Fi module, a position of the mobile terminal can be acquired based on information related to a wireless access point (AP) which transmits or receives a wireless signal to or from the Wi-Fi module.

The input unit 120 may be configured to permit various types of input to the mobile terminal 120. Examples of such input include audio, image, video, data, and user input. Image and video input is often obtained using one or more cameras 121. Such cameras 121 may process image frames of still pictures or video obtained by image sensors in a video or image capture mode. The processed image frames can be displayed on the display unit 151 or stored in memory 170. In some cases, the cameras 121 may be arranged in a matrix configuration to permit a plurality of images having various angles or focal points to be input to the mobile terminal 100. As another example, the cameras 121 may be located in a stereoscopic arrangement to acquire left and right images for implementing a stereoscopic image.

The microphone 122 is generally implemented to permit audio input to the mobile terminal 100. The audio input can be processed in various manners according to a function being executed in the mobile terminal 100. If desired, the microphone 122 may include assorted noise removing algorithms to remove unwanted noise generated in the course of receiving the external audio.

The user input unit 123 is a component that permits input by a user. Such user input may enable the controller 180 to control operation of the mobile terminal 100. The user input unit 123 may include one or more of a mechanical input element (for example, a key, a button located on a front and/or rear surface or a side surface of the mobile terminal 100, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, and the like), or a touch-sensitive input, among others. As one example, the touch-sensitive input may be a virtual key or a soft key, which is displayed on a touch screen through software processing, or a touch key which is located on the mobile terminal at a location that is other than the touch screen. On the other hand, the virtual key or the visual key may be displayed on the touch screen in various shapes, for example, graphic, text, icon, video, or a combination thereof.

The sensing unit 140 is generally configured to sense one or more of internal information of the mobile terminal, surrounding environment information of the mobile terminal, user information, or the like. The controller 180 generally cooperates with the sensing unit 140 to control operation of the mobile terminal 100 or execute data processing, a function or an operation associated with an application program installed in the mobile terminal based on the sensing provided by the sensing unit 140. The sensing unit 140 may be implemented using any of a variety of sensors, some of which will now be described in more detail.

The proximity sensor 141 may include a sensor to sense presence or absence of an object approaching a surface, or an object located near a surface, by using an electromagnetic field, infrared rays, or the like without a mechanical contact. The proximity sensor 141 may be arranged at an inner region of the mobile terminal covered by the touch screen, or near the touch screen.

The proximity sensor 141, for example, may include any of a transmissive type photoelectric sensor, a direct reflective type photoelectric sensor, a mirror reflective type photoelectric sensor, a high-frequency oscillation proximity sensor, a capacitance type proximity sensor, a magnetic type proximity sensor, an infrared rays proximity sensor, and the like. When the touch screen is implemented as a capacitance type, the proximity sensor 141 can sense proximity of a pointer relative to the touch screen by changes of an electromagnetic field, which is responsive to an approach of an object with conductivity. In this case, the touch screen (touch sensor) may also be categorized as a proximity sensor.

The term “proximity touch” will often be referred to herein to denote the scenario in which a pointer is positioned to be proximate to the touch screen without contacting the touch screen. The term “contact touch” will often be referred to herein to denote the scenario in which a pointer makes physical contact with the touch screen. For the position corresponding to the proximity touch of the pointer relative to the touch screen, such position will correspond to a position where the pointer is perpendicular to the touch screen. The proximity sensor 141 may sense proximity touch, and proximity touch patterns (for example, distance, direction, speed, time, position, moving status, and the like). The controller 180 processes data corresponding to proximity touches and proximity touch patterns sensed by the proximity sensor 141, and cause output of visual information on the touch screen. In addition, the controller 180 can control the mobile terminal 100 to execute different operations or process different data according to whether a touch with respect to a point on the touch screen is either a proximity touch or a contact touch.

A touch sensor can sense a touch applied to the touch screen, such as display unit 151, using any of a variety of touch methods. Examples of such touch methods include a resistive type, a capacitive type, an infrared type, and a magnetic field type, among others.

As one example, the touch sensor may be configured to convert changes of pressure applied to a specific part of the display unit 151, or convert capacitance occurring at a specific part of the display unit 151, into electric input signals. The touch sensor may also be configured to sense not only a touched position and a touched area, but also touch pressure and/or touch capacitance. A touch object is generally used to apply a touch input to the touch sensor. Examples of typical touch objects include a finger, a touch pen, a stylus pen, a pointer, or the like.

When a touch input is sensed by a touch sensor, corresponding signals may be transmitted to a touch controller. The touch controller may process the received signals, and then transmit corresponding data to the controller 180. Accordingly, the controller 180 may sense which region of the display unit 151 has been touched. Here, the touch controller may be a component separate from the controller 180, the controller 180, and combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the controller 180 may execute the same or different controls according to a type of touch object that touches the touch screen or a touch key provided in addition to the touch screen. Whether to execute the same or different control according to the object which provides a touch input may be decided based on a current operating state of the mobile terminal 100 or a currently executed application program, for example.

The touch sensor and the proximity sensor may be implemented individually, or in combination, to sense various types of touches. Such touches includes a short (or tap) touch, a long touch, a multi-touch, a drag touch, a flick touch, a pinch-in touch, a pinch-out touch, a swipe touch, a hovering touch, and the like.

If desired, an ultrasonic sensor may be implemented to recognize position information relating to a touch object using ultrasonic waves. The controller 180, for example, may calculate a position of a wave generation source based on information sensed by an illumination sensor and a plurality of ultrasonic sensors. Since light is much faster than ultrasonic waves, the time for which the light reaches the optical sensor is much shorter than the time for which the ultrasonic wave reaches the ultrasonic sensor. The position of the wave generation source may be calculated using this fact. For instance, the position of the wave generation source may be calculated using the time difference from the time that the ultrasonic wave reaches the sensor based on the light as a reference signal.

The camera 121 typically includes at least one a camera sensor (CCD, CMOS etc.), a photo sensor (or image sensors), and a laser sensor.

Implementing the camera 121 with a laser sensor may allow detection of a touch of a physical object with respect to a 3D stereoscopic image. The photo sensor may be laminated on, or overlapped with, the display device. The photo sensor may be configured to scan movement of the physical object in proximity to the touch screen. In more detail, the photo sensor may include photo diodes and transistors at rows and columns to scan content received at the photo sensor using an electrical signal which changes according to the quantity of applied light. Namely, the photo sensor may calculate the coordinates of the physical object according to variation of light to thus obtain position information of the physical object.

The display unit 151 is generally configured to output information processed in the mobile terminal 100. For example, the display unit 151 may display execution screen information of an application program executing at the mobile terminal 100 or user interface (UI) and graphic user interface (GUI) information in response to the execution screen information.

In some embodiments, the display unit 151 may be implemented as a stereoscopic display unit for displaying stereoscopic images.

A typical stereoscopic display unit may employ a stereoscopic display scheme such as a stereoscopic scheme (a glass scheme), an auto-stereoscopic scheme (glassless scheme), a projection scheme (holographic scheme), or the like.

The audio output module 152 is generally configured to output audio data. Such audio data may be obtained from any of a number of different sources, such that the audio data may be received from the wireless communication unit 110 or may have been stored in the memory 170. The audio data may be output during modes such as a signal reception mode, a call mode, a record mode, a voice recognition mode, a broadcast reception mode, and the like. The audio output module 152 can provide audible output related to a particular function (e.g., a call signal reception sound, a message reception sound, etc.) performed by the mobile terminal 100. The audio output module 152 may also be implemented as a receiver, a speaker, a buzzer, or the like.

A haptic module 153 can be configured to generate various tactile effects that a user feels, perceive, or otherwise experience. A typical example of a tactile effect generated by the haptic module 153 is vibration. The strength, pattern and the like of the vibration generated by the haptic module 153 can be controlled by user selection or setting by the controller. For example, the haptic module 153 may output different vibrations in a combining manner or a sequential manner.

Besides vibration, the haptic module 153 can generate various other tactile effects, including an effect by stimulation such as a pin arrangement vertically moving to contact skin, a spray force or suction force of air through a jet orifice or a suction opening, a touch to the skin, a contact of an electrode, electrostatic force, an effect by reproducing the sense of cold and warmth using an element that can absorb or generate heat, and the like.

The haptic module 153 can also be implemented to allow the user to feel a tactile effect through a muscle sensation such as the user's fingers or arm, as well as transferring the tactile effect through direct contact. Two or more haptic modules 153 may be provided according to the particular configuration of the mobile terminal 100.

An optical output module 154 can output a signal for indicating an event generation using light of a light source. Examples of events generated in the mobile terminal 100 may include message reception, call signal reception, a missed call, an alarm, a schedule notice, an email reception, information reception through an application, and the like.

A signal output by the optical output module 154 may be implemented in such a manner that the mobile terminal emits monochromatic light or light with a plurality of colors. The signal output may be terminated as the mobile terminal senses that a user has checked the generated event, for example.

The interface unit 160 serves as an interface for external devices to be connected with the mobile terminal 100. For example, the interface unit 160 can receive data transmitted from an external device, receive power to transfer to elements and components within the mobile terminal 100, or transmit internal data of the mobile terminal 100 to such external device. The interface unit 160 may include wired or wireless headset ports, external power supply ports, wired or wireless data ports, memory card ports, ports for connecting a device having an identification module, audio input/output (I/O) ports, video I/O ports, earphone ports, or the like.

The identification module may be a chip that stores various information for authenticating authority of using the mobile terminal 100 and may include a user identity module (UIM), a subscriber identity module (SIM), a universal subscriber identity module (USIM), and the like. In addition, the device having the identification module (also referred to herein as an “identifying device”) may take the form of a smart card. Accordingly, the identifying device can be connected with the terminal 100 via the interface unit 160.

When the mobile terminal 100 is connected with an external cradle, the interface unit 160 can serve as a passage to allow power from the cradle to be supplied to the mobile terminal 100 or may serve as a passage to allow various command signals input by the user from the cradle to be transferred to the mobile terminal there through. Various command signals or power input from the cradle may operate as signals for recognizing that the mobile terminal is properly mounted on the cradle.

The memory 170 can store programs to support operations of the controller 180 and store input/output data (for example, phonebook, messages, still images, videos, etc.). The memory 170 may store data related to various patterns of vibrations and audio which are output in response to touch inputs on the touch screen.

The memory 170 may include one or more types of storage mediums including a Flash memory, a hard disk, a solid state disk, a silicon disk, a multimedia card micro type, a card-type memory (e.g., SD or DX memory, etc), a Random Access Memory (RAM), a Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), a Read-Only Memory (ROM), an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), a Programmable Read-Only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, and the like. The mobile terminal 100 may also be operated in relation to a network storage device that performs the storage function of the memory 170 over a network, such as the Internet.

The controller 180 may typically control the general operations of the mobile terminal 100. For example, the controller 180 may set or release a lock state for restricting a user from inputting a control command with respect to applications when a status of the mobile terminal meets a preset condition.

The controller 180 can also perform the controlling and processing associated with voice calls, data communications, video calls, and the like, or perform pattern recognition processing to recognize a handwriting input or a picture drawing input performed on the touch screen as characters or images, respectively. In addition, the controller 180 can control one or a combination of those components in order to implement various exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.

The power supply unit 190 may be provided with the power supplied by an external power source and the power supplied therein under the control of the controller 180 so as to supply the needed power to each of the components. The power supply unit 190 may include a battery. The battery may be a built-in type which is rechargeable and detachably loaded in the terminal to be charged.

The power supply unit 190 may include a connection port. The connection port may be configured as one example of the interface unit 160 to which an external charger for supplying power to recharge the battery is electrically connected.

As another example, the power supply unit 190 may be configured to recharge the battery in a wireless manner without use of the connection port. In this example, the power supply unit 190 can receive power, transferred from an external wireless power transmitter, using at least one of an inductive coupling method which is based on magnetic induction or a magnetic resonance coupling method which is based on electromagnetic resonance.

Various embodiments described herein may be implemented in a computer-readable medium, a machine-readable medium, or similar medium using, for example, software, hardware, or any combination thereof.

Referring now to FIGS. 1B and 1C, the mobile terminal 100 is described with reference to a bar-type terminal body. However, the mobile terminal 100 may alternatively be implemented in any of a variety of different configurations. Examples of such configurations include watch-type, clip-type, glasses-type, or as a folder-type, flip-type, slide-type, swing-type, and swivel-type in which two and more bodies are combined with each other in a relatively movable manner, and combinations thereof. Discussion herein will often relate to a particular type of mobile terminal (for example, bar-type, watch-type, glasses-type, and the like). However, such teachings with regard to a particular type of mobile terminal will generally apply to other types of mobile terminals as well.

Here, the terminal body may be understood to refer to the concept of this bore a mobile terminal (100) to at least one of the aggregate.

The mobile terminal 100 will generally include a case (for example, frame, housing, cover, and the like) forming the appearance of the terminal. In this embodiment, the case is formed using a front case 101 and a rear case 102. Various electronic components are incorporated into a space formed between the front case 101 and the rear case 102. At least one middle case may be additionally positioned between the front case 101 and the rear case 102.

The display unit 151 is shown located on the front side of the terminal body to output information. As illustrated, a window 151 a of the display unit 151 may be mounted to the front case 101 to form the front surface of the terminal body together with the front case 101.

In some embodiments, electronic components may also be mounted to the rear case 102. Examples of such electronic components include a detachable battery 191, an identification module, a memory card, and the like. Rear cover 103 is shown covering the electronic components, and this cover may be detachably coupled to the rear case 102. Therefore, when the rear cover 103 is detached from the rear case 102, the electronic components mounted to the rear case 102 are externally exposed.

When the rear cover 103 is coupled to the rear case 102, a part of the side surface of the rear case 102 may be exposed, as shown in FIG. 1C. In some cases, when the rear cover 103 is coupled, the rear case 102 may be completely covered by the rear cover 103. In some implementations, the rear cover 103 may be provided with an opening for exposing a camera 121 b or an audio output unit 152 b to the outside.

A part of the front case 101 or a part of the rear case 102 may constitute the side surface of the mobile terminal, or a separate side case 105 may be provided. The side case 105 may provide a robust and neat appearance in terms of design by using a material different from that of the front case 101, the rear case 102 and the rear cover 103. The side case may cover the entire side surface of the mobile terminal, or may cover only a part of the side surface.

The cases 101, 102, 103 may be formed by injection-molding synthetic resin or may be formed of a metal, for example, stainless steel (STS), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), or the like.

As an alternative to the example in which the plurality of cases form an inner space for accommodating components, the mobile terminal 100 may be configured such that one case forms the inner space. In this example, a mobile terminal 100 having a uni-body is formed in such a manner that synthetic resin or metal extends from a side surface to a rear surface.

If desired, the mobile terminal 100 may include a waterproofing unit (not shown) for preventing introduction of water into the terminal body. For example, the waterproofing unit may include a waterproofing member which is located between the window 151 a and the front case 101, between the front case 101 and the rear case 102, or between the rear case 102 and the rear cover 103, to hermetically seal an inner space when those cases are coupled.

The mobile terminal 100 may include the display unit 151, the audio output module, the proximity sensor 141, the illuminance sensor 142, the optical output module 154, the camera 121, the user input unit 123, the microphone 122 and the interface unit 160

It will be described for the mobile terminal as shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C. The display unit 151, the first audio output module 152 a, the proximity sensor 141, an illumination sensor 142, the optical output module 154, the first camera 121 a and the first manipulation unit 123 a are arranged in front surface of the terminal body, the second manipulation unit 123 b, the microphone 122 and interface unit 160 are arranged in side surface of the terminal body, and the second audio output modules 152 b and the second camera 121 b are arranged in rear surface of the terminal body.

It is to be understood that alternative arrangements are possible and within the teachings of the instant disclosure. Some components may be omitted or rearranged. For example, the first manipulation unit 123 a may be located on another surface of the terminal body, and the second audio output module 152 b may be located on the side surface of the terminal body.

The display unit 151 is generally configured to output information processed in the mobile terminal 100. For example, the display unit 151 may display execution screen information of an application program executing at the mobile terminal 100 or user interface (UI) and graphic user interface (GUI) information in response to the execution screen information.

The display unit 151 outputs information processed in the mobile terminal 100. The display unit 151 may be implemented using one or more suitable display devices. Examples of such suitable display devices include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a flexible display, a 3-dimensional (3D) display, an e-ink display, and combinations thereof.

The display unit 151 may be implemented using two display devices, which can implement the same or different display technology. For instance, a plurality of the display units 151 may be arranged on one side, either spaced apart from each other, or these devices may be integrated, or these devices may be arranged on different surfaces.

The display unit 151 may also include a touch sensor which senses a touch input received at the display unit. When a touch is input to the display unit 151, the touch sensor may be configured to sense this touch and the controller 180, for example, may generate a control command or other signal corresponding to the touch. The content which is input in the touching manner may be a text or numerical value, or a menu item which can be indicated or designated in various modes.

The touch sensor may be configured in a form of a film having a touch pattern, disposed between the window 151 a and a display on a rear surface of the window 151 a, or a metal wire which is patterned directly on the rear surface of the window 151 a. Alternatively, the touch sensor may be integrally formed with the display. For example, the touch sensor may be disposed on a substrate of the display or within the display.

The display unit 151 may also form a touch screen together with the touch sensor. Here, the touch screen may serve as the user input unit 123 (see FIG. 1A). Therefore, the touch screen may replace at least some of the functions of the first manipulation unit 123 a.

The first audio output module 152 a may be implemented in the form of a speaker to output voice audio, alarm sounds, multimedia audio reproduction, and the like.

The window 151 a of the display unit 151 will typically include an aperture to permit audio generated by the first audio output module 152 a to pass. One alternative is to allow audio to be released along an assembly gap between the structural bodies (for example, a gap between the window 151 a and the front case 101). In this case, a hole independently formed to output audio sounds may not be seen or is otherwise hidden in terms of appearance, thereby further simplifying the appearance and manufacturing of the mobile terminal 100.

The optical output module 154 can be configured to output light for indicating an event generation. Examples of such events include a message reception, a call signal reception, a missed call, an alarm, a schedule notice, an email reception, information reception through an application, and the like. When a user has checked a generated event, the controller can control the optical output unit 154 to stop the light output.

The first camera 121 a can process image frames such as still or moving images obtained by the image sensor in a capture mode or a video call mode. The processed image frames can then be displayed on the display unit 151 or stored in the memory 170.

The first and second manipulation units 123 a and 123 b are examples of the user input unit 123, which may be manipulated by a user to provide input to the mobile terminal 100. The first and second manipulation units 123 a and 123 b may also be commonly referred to as a manipulating portion, and may employ any tactile method that allows the user to perform manipulation such as touch, push, scroll, or the like. The first and second manipulation units 123 a and 123 b may also employ any non-tactile method that allows the user to perform manipulation such as proximity touch, hovering, or the like.

FIG. 1B illustrates the first manipulation unit 123 a as a touch key, but possible alternatives include a mechanical key, a push key, a touch key, and combinations thereof.

Input received at the first and second manipulation units 123 a and 123 b may be used in various ways. For example, the first manipulation unit 123 a may be used by the user to provide an input to a menu, home key, cancel, search, or the like, and the second manipulation unit 123 b may be used by the user to provide an input to control a volume level being output from the first or second audio output modules 152 a or 152 b, to switch to a touch recognition mode of the display unit 151, or the like.

As another example of the user input unit 123, a rear input unit (not shown) may be located on the rear surface of the terminal body. The rear input unit can be manipulated by a user to provide input to the mobile terminal 100. The input may be used in a variety of different ways. For example, the rear input unit may be used by the user to provide an input for power on/off, start, end, scroll, control volume level being output from the first or second audio output modules 152 a or 152 b, switch to a touch recognition mode of the display unit 151, and the like. The rear input unit may be configured to permit touch input, a push input, or combinations thereof.

The rear input unit may be located to overlap the display unit 151 of the front side in a thickness direction of the terminal body. As one example, the rear input unit may be located on an upper end portion of the rear side of the terminal body such that a user can easily manipulate it using a forefinger when the user grabs the terminal body with one hand. Alternatively, the rear input unit can be positioned at most any location of the rear side of the terminal body.

Embodiments that include the rear input unit may implement some or all of the functionality of the first manipulation unit 123 a in the rear input unit. As such, in situations where the first manipulation unit 123 a is omitted from the front side, the display unit 151 can have a larger screen.

As a further alternative, the mobile terminal 100 may include a finger scan sensor which scans a user's fingerprint. The controller 180 can then use fingerprint information sensed by the finger scan sensor as part of an authentication procedure. The finger scan sensor may also be installed in the display unit 151 or implemented in the user input unit 123.

The microphone 122 is shown located at an end of the mobile terminal 100, but other locations are possible. If desired, multiple microphones may be implemented, with such an arrangement permitting the receiving of stereo sounds.

The interface unit 160 may serve as a path allowing the mobile terminal 100 to interface with external devices. For example, the interface unit 160 may include one or more of a connection terminal for connecting to another device (for example, an earphone, an external speaker, or the like), a port for near field communication (for example, an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) port, a Bluetooth port, a wireless LAN port, and the like), or a power supply terminal for supplying power to the mobile terminal 100. The interface unit 160 may be implemented in the form of a socket for accommodating an external card, such as Subscriber Identification Module (SIM), User Identity Module (UIM), or a memory card for information storage.

The second camera 121 b is shown located at the rear side of the terminal body and includes an image capturing direction that is substantially opposite to the image capturing direction of the first camera unit 121 a. If desired, second camera 121 a may alternatively be located at other locations, or made to be moveable, in order to have a different image capturing direction from that which is shown.

The second camera 121 b can include a plurality of lenses arranged along at least one line. The plurality of lenses may also be arranged in a matrix configuration. The cameras may be referred to as an “array camera.” When the second camera 121 b is implemented as an array camera, images may be captured in various manners using the plurality of lenses and images with better qualities.

A flash 124 is shown located adjacent to the second camera 121 b. When an image of a subject is captured with the camera 121 b, the flash 124 may illuminate the subject.

The second audio output module 152 b can be located on the terminal body. The second audio output module 152 b may implement stereophonic sound functions in conjunction with the first audio output module 152 a, and may be also used for implementing a speaker phone mode for call communication.

At least one antenna for wireless communication may be located on the terminal body. The antenna may be installed in the terminal body or formed by the case. For example, an antenna which configures a part of the broadcast receiving module 111 (see FIG. 1A). may be retractable into the terminal body. Alternatively, an antenna may be formed using a film attached to an inner surface of the rear cover 103, or a case that includes a conductive material.

A power supply unit 190 for supplying power to the mobile terminal 100 may include a battery 191, which is mounted in the terminal body or detachably coupled to an outside of the terminal body.

The battery 191 may receive power via a power source cable connected to the interface unit 160. Also, the battery 191 can be recharged in a wireless manner using a wireless charger. Wireless charging may be implemented by magnetic induction or electromagnetic resonance.

The rear cover 103 is shown coupled to the rear case 102 for shielding the battery 191, to prevent separation of the battery 191, and to protect the battery 191 from an external impact or from foreign material. When the battery 191 is detachable from the terminal body, the rear case 103 may be detachably coupled to the rear case 102.

An accessory for protecting the outer appearance or assisting or extending the functions of the mobile terminal 100 may be provided to the mobile terminal 100. An example of the accessory may be a cover or pouch for covering or accommodating at least one surface of the mobile terminal 100. The cover or pouch may be configured to extend the functions of the mobile terminal 100 in connection with the display unit 151. Another example of the accessory may be a touch pen for assisting or extending a touch input to a touch screen.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the mobile terminal 100 in accordance with the present disclosure. The mobile terminal 100 of the present invention may include various components such as a battery 191, a main board 181, a camera 121, and an audio output unit 152, which are surrounded by a front case 101 and a rear case 102. The front case 101 and the rear case 102 may be exposed to the outside, and a rear cover, side cases 105, and the display unit 151 may be coupled to the front case 101 and the rear case 102 to configure the external appearance of the mobile terminal 100.

The front case 101 may include a metal plate to support the rear surface of the display unit 151 while reinforcing the rigidity of the mobile terminal 100. The metal plate may be coupled with an injection-molded product through insert injection to form protrusions and recesses so as to mount various components and may be partially exposed to the outside of the mobile terminal 100.

The front surface of the front case 101 is coupled with the display unit 151, and a window 151 a coupled to the front surface of the display unit 151 constitutes the front surface of the mobile terminal 100. The front case 101 may be partially exposed on the periphery of the display unit 151, or the glass of the window 151 a may define the external appearance of the entire front surface.

The side case 105 covering a part of the side surfaces of the rear case 102 and the front case 101 may be formed of a material different from that of the rear case 102 and the front case 101. When the side case 105 is formed of a metal material, a neat appearance design may be provided, and the rigidity of the mobile terminal 100 may be enhanced. As shown in FIG. 2, the side case 105 of the present invention employs a pair of metallic beam-shaped members that are respectively coupled to the left and right sides of the mobile terminal 100. Hereinafter, the beam-shaped side cases 105 are referred to as a metal beam 105.

The metal beam 105 may cover the left side surface and right side surface and even cover corner portion. Thus, the metal beam may partially cover the sides of the upper portion and the lower portion. If the metal beam 105 is formed in a straight-line shape to cover only the left and right side surfaces, it may be vulnerable to vertical pushes. Accordingly, as the upper and lower ends of the metal beam 105, the side case 105 that covers even the sides of the upper and lower portions of the mobile terminal is used.

Further, the metal beam 105 may be used as an antenna 116. However, if the entire side periphery of the mobile terminal 100 is formed of a metal material, performance of the antenna 116 may be deteriorated. Accordingly, slits formed of a non-metallic material and spaced apart from each other should be formed in the side surface. Therefore, the side case 105 having the upper and lower portions opened is more advantageous than the side case that surrounds the entire lateral surface of the mobile terminal in realizing an antenna radiator.

To use the metal beam 105 as the antenna 116, the metal beam needs to be connected to the main board 181 inside the cases 101 and 102. Accordingly, the metal beam 105 is partially inserted into the cases 101 and 102. The metal beam 105 includes side metal 105 a coupled to the side surfaces of the cases 101 and 102, and a connection bridge 105 b inwardly extending from the side metal 105 a through the cases 101 and 102. Since the metal beam 105 is located on the side surfaces of the mobile terminal 100, the metal beam may include, when necessary, an opening for mounting a user input unit or a memory card.

Insertion holes 101 a corresponding to the connection bridge 105 b is formed in the side surfaces of the cases 101 and 102. Since water may flow into the insertion hole 101 a, which communicates with the inside, waterproof packing 210 may be positioned around the insertion holes 101 a.

FIGS. 3 and 4 are flow diagrams illustrating a process of assembling the metal beam 105 of the mobile terminal 100 in accordance with the present disclosure. The front case 101 is prepared through double injection. FIG. 3(a) shows the rear surface of the front case 101. The front surface of the front case 101 is smooth because the display unit 151 is seated thereon. Since various components are mounted on the rear surface of the front case 101, the rear surface has protrusions and recesses. The peripheral portion of the front case 101 protrudes backward and the periphery of the rear case 102 is coupled with the side wall of the front case 101 to define an inner space.

An insertion hole 101 a is formed in the side surface of the front case 101. A waterproof packing 210 having an opening corresponding to the insertion hole 101 a is disposed around the insertion hole 101 a of the front case 101 such that the connection bridge 105 b can pass through the opening. A connection substrate is disposed inside the insertion hole 101 a.

The connection substrate is a member having a metal pattern formed on a flexible insulating material. The metal pattern is partially exposed to form a terminal to be connected to another member. The connection substrate serves to connect the metal beam 105 to internal components of the mobile terminal 100, and is typically connected to the main substrate 181. That is, the connection substrate 185 includes at least two terminals, one terminal being in contact with the connection bridge 105 b and the other being in contact with the main board.

The connection bridge 105 b of the metal beam 105 is inserted into the insertion hole 101 a and the metal beam 105 is coupled to the side surface of the front case 101. The waterproof packing 210 interposed between the side metal 105 a of the metal beam 105 and the side surface of the front case 101 prevents water from infiltrating into the insertion hole 101 a.

The connection bridge 105 b is disposed so as to overlap the connection substrate 185 as shown in FIG. 3(c), and the connection substrate 185 is interposed between the connection bridge 105 b and the front case 101. Fixing holes 1055 are formed in the connection substrate 185 and the connection bridge 105 b. The fixing holes 1055 are arranged in parallel in the connection substrate 185 and the connection bridge 105 b.

As shown in FIG. 4(a), in order to fix the metal beam 105, a fastener 200 is fastened to the front case 101 through the fixing holes 1055 of the connection bridge 105 b and the connection substrate 185. The fastener 200 includes a fixing pin having a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the fixing hole 1055 and a head which is larger than the diameter of the fixing pin and provided to one end of the fixing pin, such that the connection bridge 105 b presses and fixes the connection substrate 185 and the metal beam 105 is stably fixed to the cases 101 and 102. The fixing pin may be inserted into the fixing hole 1055. A screw having a thread may be used as the fixing pin to reinforce the fastening to the fixing hole 1055. Given the fastener 200 made of a metal material, reliability of electrical connection between the connection bridge 105 b and the connection substrate 185 may be further improved.

As shown in FIG. 4(b), the main board 181 is coupled to the rear surface of the front case 101. A portion of the main board 181 corresponding to the head of the fastener 200 may be opened for a space where the head is to be positioned. The main board 181 may include connection clips on the front and rear surfaces thereof, respectively. Referring to FIG. 5, a first connection clip 182 a mounted on the front surface of the main board 181 that faces the front case 101 contacts the terminal of the connection substrate 185, and a second connection clip 182 b mounted on the rear surface of the main board 181 is connected to the antenna 116 mounted on the rear cover for covering the main board 181, as shown in FIG. 4(c).

In some embodiments, the rear cover 103 may further be arranged after the step of FIG. 4(c).

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 1C. In the figure, the fastener 200 is passed through the connection bridge 105 b and fastened to the front case 101 to fix the metal beam 105. The connection substrate 185 in contact with the connection bridge 105 b is connected to the first connection clip 182 a of the main substrate 181, and the second connection clip 182 b, which is electrically connected to the first connection clip 182 a, is connected to the antenna 116.

The antenna 116 may be attached to the rear case 102 in the form of a film. When the rear case 102 is partially made of a metal material, the metal portion of the rear case 102 may be used as the antenna 116. As the functions of the mobile terminal 100 are expanded, various types of wireless communication schemes are used. Thus, a plurality of antennas 116 needs to be mounted in the mobile terminal 100.

As the antennas 116 are used to transmit radio signals, it is important to arrange the antennas 116 so as to minimize the influence thereof on each other. Accordingly, it is important to utilize the space in the mobile terminal 100 of a reduced size. The space may be effectively used by utilizing the metal beam 105 exposed on the side surface of the mobile terminal 100 as an antenna 116 for wireless communication.

FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a combination of the antennas 116 and the metal beam 105 of the mobile terminal 106 in accordance with the present disclosure. Each antenna 116 is connected to a power feeding part and a ground. Accordingly, the metal beam 105 may include a first connection bridge 1051 connected to the antenna 116 and a second connection bridge 1051 connected to the ground of the main board 181. That is, a pair of connection bridges 105 b may transmit and receive signals of a specific frequency in connection with one antenna 116.

In general, an antenna 116 a for GPS and an antenna 116 b for Bluetooth and WiFi are mounted on an upper portion of the mobile terminal 100, and a main antenna 116 c for LTE communication is positioned at a lower portion of the mobile terminal.

Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 6, the upper portion A of the metal beam 105 on one side is connected to the GPS antenna 116 a and the upper portion B of the metal beam 105 on the opposite side is connected to the Bluetooth/WiFi antenna 116 b. The lower portion C of one of the pair of metal beams 105 is connected to the main antenna 116 c to serve as a radiator for LTE communication.

Since the middle portion D of the metal beam 105 is a portion that is grabbed by the user when the user holds the mobile terminal 100, it is not appropriate to use the middle portion as a radiator. Thus, the middle portion is connected to the ground so as to be grounded, and is thus distinguished from the portions serving as upper and lower radiators B and C.

In order to use the metal beam 105 as the antenna 116, the insertion holes 101 a are formed in the cases 101 and 102 to connect the metal beam to the inside. As described above, the waterproof packing 210 for sealing the periphery of the insertion holes 101 a may be used to prevent water from infiltrating into the cases 101 and 102.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in FIG. 1C. In addition to the connection bridge 105 b, an auxiliary bridge 105 c which does not extend into the cases 101 and 102 but is coupled with the front case 101 may be further provided to enhance coupling between the metal beam 105 and the cases 101 and 102.

Since the fastener 200 for fastening the connection bridge 105 b is inserted into the rear surface of the front case 101 and the head of the fastener 200 is positioned inside the cases 101 and 102, the fastener may protrude from the surface of the front case 101.

On the other hand, the auxiliary fastener 201 for fastening the auxiliary bridge 105 c is inserted into the front surface of the front case 101 and the position of the auxiliary fastener 201 that is inserted is covered by the display unit 151 or the window 151 a. The auxiliary fastener 201 may not protrude from the front surface of the front case 101 but an end portion of the auxiliary fastener 201 may be in the same plane as the front surface of the front case 101, as shown in FIG. 7.

Since the auxiliary fastener 201 and the fastener 200 for fixing the auxiliary bridge 105 c and the connection bridge 105 b are fastened in different directions, coupling of the metal beam 105 is enhanced. Particularly, the auxiliary bridge 105 c which does not extend into the cases 101 and 102 may not be provided with the waterproof packing 210 because there is no risk of infiltration of water into the internal space.

As is apparent from the above, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, water cannot infiltrate into the terminal, and therefore malfunction caused by water infiltration may be prevented.

In addition, the antenna 116 may be implemented using an external metal structure without separately providing an additional structure for the antenna 116.

The foregoing detailed description should not be construed in all aspects as limiting and should be considered illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by rational interpretation of the appended claims, and it is intended that the present invention cover modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A mobile terminal comprising: a case comprising a side surface that defines an insertion hole; a metal beam including a side metal that covers the side surface of the case and a connection bridge that extends from the side metal into the case, that is inserted through the insertion hole of the case, and that passes through the side surface of the case; a fastener that is inserted into a fixing hole defined in the connection bridge and that is fastened to the case; and a waterproof packing that is interposed between the side surface of the case and the side metal and that defines an opening through which the connection bridge passes.
 2. The mobile terminal of claim 1, further comprising: a connection substrate positioned inside the case and having one end in contact with the connection bridge.
 3. The mobile terminal of claim 2, wherein the connection substrate comprises an opening through which the fastener passes, the connection substrate being interposed between the case and the connection bridge.
 4. The mobile terminal of claim 2, further comprising: a main board mounted inside the case; a first connecting clip formed on a first surface of the main board and in contact with an opposite end of the connection substrate; a second connection clip formed on a second surface of the main board and electrically connected to the first connection clip; and an antenna in contact with the second connection clip.
 5. The mobile terminal of claim 4, wherein the connection bridge comprises: a first connection bridge connected to one side of the antenna; and a second connection bridge spaced apart from the first connection bridge and connected to a second portion of the antenna.
 6. The mobile terminal of claim 2, further comprising: a ground electrically connected to the connection bridge.
 7. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the fastener comprises a fixing pin having a diameter corresponding to the fix hole and a head larger than the diameter of the fixing pin.
 8. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the side metal faces the side surface of the case and is disposed outward of the side surface of the case.
 9. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein an extension length of the connection bridge from the side metal is greater than a thickness of a side wall of the case that defines the side surface of the case.
 10. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the case comprises: a front case comprising a first surface configured to seat a display unit, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a side wall that connects the first surface to the second surface and that defines the side surface of the case; and a rear case coupled to the second surface of the front case, and wherein the connection bridge passes through the side wall of the front case.
 11. The mobile terminal of claim 1, wherein the connection bridge has a flat shape, and a width of the insertion hole is greater than a height of the insertion hole.
 12. The mobile terminal of claim 11, wherein the opening of the waterproof packing has a shape corresponding to the flat shape of the connection bridge.
 13. A mobile terminal comprising: a case that defines an insertion hole in a side surface thereof; a metal beam comprising a side metal that covers the side surface of the case and a connection bridge that extends from the side metal into the case through the insertion hole; a fastener that is inserted into a fixing hole defined in the connection bridge and that is fastened to the case; a waterproof packing that is interposed between the side surface of the case and the side metal and that defines an opening through which the connection bridge passes; an auxiliary bridge positioned on an outer surface of the case; and an auxiliary fastener fastened to the case by passing through the auxiliary bridge.
 14. The mobile terminal of claim 13, wherein the case comprises: a front case allowing a display unit to be seated on one surface thereof; and a rear case coupled to a rear surface of the front case to define an internal space, wherein the fastener passing through the connection bridge is coupled on an opposite surface of the front case, and wherein the auxiliary fastener passing through the auxiliary bridge is coupled on the one surface of the front case.
 15. The mobile terminal of claim 14, wherein an end portion of the auxiliary fastener is in the same plane as the one surface of the front case. 